Second batch of contaminated pelicans released

A second batch of brown pelicans which had been contaminated by fish oil at the Crescent City Harbor have been released after being treated at the Humboldt Wildlife Care Center with help from Bird Ally X.

The young pelicans were soiled by fish waste after "Dumpster-diving" around the fish cleaning stations of Crescent City Harbor. Working with the harbor master, the problem was soon resolved, but not before more than 30 birds -- mostly juvenile brown pelicans -- were contaminated.

The fish oil has the same impact on an aquatic bird's waterproof feather structure as petroleum products.

Captured by members of Bird Ally X and brought to the Humboldt Wildlife Care Center, the impacted birds were treated and cleaned and given time to recover. Most were suffering from malnutrition and needed additional time to regain lost body mass.

HWCC still has more than a dozen birds in its care from this incident, and there are reports of similar problems at other fishing docks along the North Coast involving more pelicans in need of care. Donations are still needed.